Getting the lead out at Dennett

Jon Wilhelmsen, chairman of the Plympton School Committee, brought good news to the Board of Selectmen at their meeting on August 5, as he shared the results from the latest water testing done at the Dennett Elementary School.

Wilhelmsen reiterated his theory that the high lead results were likely due to the testing occurring at or around the backwash cycle that is run every 14 days. Water is pumped backward through the filter during backwashing and if the tests were taken the same day as the backwash cycle it would be pulling in the lead that had been filtered out of the water over the previous two weeks.

Wilhelmsen said that the theory appears to be correct as the test results from the end of June show no lead or such a minimal amount that it’s barely detectable. All other levels look good as well. Wilhelmsen said, “The lead issue appears to be figured out and we are going to be putting in some procedures to make sure that they don’t test around any of the backwash cycles.” He added, “I hope to never use the words water and Dennett again.”

Selectmen discussed the MassWorks grant application to explore different design options for the intersection of Main Street and Ring Road. Town Administrator Elizabeth Dennehy, who was not present at this week’s meeting, submitted the grant application on Friday, August 2.

Selectman Chair Christine Joy explained the purpose of the grant saying “The MassWorks grant is for design services so we’re looking at several options; nothing is set in stone. We’re just looking at the best option for that area to accomplish what we’re looking to do which I think is to slow people down and provide a safer area for people to negotiate on the road.” Vice Chair Mark Russo added, “Let me just emphasize that an integral part of the process will be public input especially input from abutters and neighbors.” The board said that they will begin preliminary discussions regarding the intersection during their next meeting on August 19 and urged concerned residents to attend and share their thoughts.

Correspondence from the Board of Health was shared stating that the Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) risk level in Plympton has been raised to high. A dusk to dawn curfew for town owned properties remains in effect. Residents can call Plymouth County Mosquito Control at 781-585-5450 to have their properties sprayed. The notice also included safety tips including selecting a repellent with an EPA approved ingredient, removing standing water from property, repairing screens, wearing long sleeves, and avoiding outdoor activities during peak mosquito hours.

The Board also discussed developments with instituting a campus committee to deal with ongoing structural issues in the town buildings. John Traynor said, “We’ve talked about having the public safety committee transferred to the campus committee and each one has been talked to and each one has accepted.” The appointments will be made official during the next Board of Selectmen meeting. The public safety committee will continue on for a while longer to deal with any ongoing issues. Traynor will serve as a representative on the new campus committee. Russo said, “I think John’s enthusiasm and energy will be really helpful.”

An update was provided on the two municipal lots that are still for sale. The board is hopeful that they will receive some bids now that they have been advertised in multiple sources. Russo described the land as “two beautiful lots on Prospect Road.” Joy agreed adding “with conservation land in your backyard.”

In other town news, Dave Batchelder will join the Council on Aging Board. Batchelder will also work with State Representative Kathy LaNatra regarding issues that affect senior citizens in Plympton. Traynor who said he’s delighted to have him on board said, “Dave, for those who don’t know him, has been in town government for many, many years in many, many positions.” Like the campus committee, his appointment will also be made official at the next Board of Selectmen meeting.

A final note from the meeting – hazardous waste clean-up day is scheduled for Saturday, August 10 from 9-12 at the transfer station.

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